Mitos dan Legenda Ken Arok: Sebuah Analisis Sastra Jawa Kuno

Ken Arok, the legendary founder of the Singhasari kingdom in East Java, is a figure shrouded in myth and legend. His story, as told in the ancient Javanese text *Pararaton*, is a captivating blend of historical fact and fantastical elements. This narrative, woven with intricate details of political intrigue, divine intervention, and heroic deeds, offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and social landscape of ancient Java. This essay delves into the *Pararaton*'s portrayal of Ken Arok, analyzing the interplay of myth and legend in shaping his image as a powerful and influential figure.

The Rise of a King: A Tale of Ambition and Destiny

The *Pararaton* presents Ken Arok as a man of humble origins, born into poverty and hardship. However, his destiny is intertwined with the divine from the very beginning. He is said to have been conceived through a mystical encounter between his mother and a supernatural being, a detail that immediately elevates him above the ordinary. As he grows, Ken Arok displays remarkable ambition and cunning, traits that propel him through a series of trials and tribulations. He becomes a skilled warrior, a shrewd politician, and ultimately, the ruler of a vast kingdom. The *Pararaton* emphasizes the role of fate in Ken Arok's rise to power, suggesting that his success was predetermined by divine forces.

The Role of Myth and Legend in Shaping Ken Arok's Image

The *Pararaton*'s narrative is heavily infused with mythical elements, which contribute significantly to the construction of Ken Arok's image. The story is replete with supernatural beings, magical objects, and divine interventions. For instance, Ken Arok's acquisition of the magical weapon, the *keris* named *Kiai Condong*, is attributed to a mystical encounter with a supernatural entity. This element adds a layer of mystique and power to his persona, transforming him from a mere mortal into a figure imbued with divine favor. The *Pararaton* also incorporates elements of Javanese folklore, such as the story of the *Dewi Sri*, the goddess of rice, who is said to have bestowed her blessings upon Ken Arok. These mythical elements serve to legitimize his rule and elevate him to the status of a legendary hero.

The Historical Context of Ken Arok's Story

While the *Pararaton* is a rich source of information about Ken Arok, it is important to consider the historical context in which it was written. The text was composed during the Majapahit period, centuries after Ken Arok's reign. This suggests that the *Pararaton*'s account of Ken Arok's life may have been influenced by later historical events and political agendas. The text's emphasis on Ken Arok's divine lineage and his role as a chosen leader could be interpreted as a means of legitimizing the rule of the Majapahit kings, who claimed descent from the Singhasari dynasty.

The Legacy of Ken Arok: A Symbol of Power and Ambition

Ken Arok's story, as told in the *Pararaton*, has had a lasting impact on Javanese culture. He has become a symbol of ambition, power, and the ability to overcome adversity. His legend continues to inspire and fascinate, serving as a reminder of the enduring power of myth and legend in shaping our understanding of history. The *Pararaton*'s portrayal of Ken Arok, with its blend of historical fact and fantastical elements, offers a valuable window into the cultural and social values of ancient Java. It highlights the importance of myth and legend in constructing narratives of power and authority, and in shaping the collective memory of a nation.